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Xavier Neligan named 2026 Minor Star Hurling Player of the Year
Xavier Neligan named 2026 Minor Star Hurling Player of the Year. Picture via Limerick Supporters Group
Xavier Neligan has been named the 2026 Minor Star Hurling Player of the Year, with five teammates receiving All-Stars
Seven Limerick athletes have been named in the 2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year with Xavier Neligan being named as overall Player of the Year.
In this year’s Team of the Year, All-Ireland champions Limerick lead the way with six representatives, and midfield powerhouse Xavier Neligan is named as Player of the Year. The Kilmallock man was the heartbeat of Limerick’s historic triumph, which saw them bring home the Minor All-Ireland Championship for the first time in 42 years with a hard-fought win over Tipperary.
Neligan was sensational in the semi-final win over Galway, scoring 1-2 to help secure their place in the decider. In the final, Neligan’s industry was crucial in keeping Limerick in the hunt before he made a heroic, game-saving block on a last-gasp Tipperary shot to secure the Irish Press Cup.
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The Limerick players featuring in the 2026 Electric Ireland Hurling Minor Star Team of the Year are Sam Collins, Crecora-Manister, Rowan Collins, Adare, John O Riordan, Bruff, Eoin Hennessy, Patrickswell, Xavier Neligan, Kilmallock, and Limerick captain Shane Waters, Na Piarsaigh.
Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, said, “I want to offer my warmest congratulations to the fifteen exceptional young hurlers selected on the 2026 Electric Ireland Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year. The talent, skill, and sheer drama on display throughout this year’s championship was wonderful to witness, culminating in that unforgettable All-Ireland final between Limerick and Tipperary.
“These players have represented their clubs and counties with immense pride, and they have a very bright future ahead of them. Finally, I would like to thank Electric Ireland for their outstanding, continued support of the Minor Championships. Their dedication to celebrating and promoting these young players ensures that their achievements are recognised on a national stage.”
Jillian Saunders, Group Sponsorship and PR Manager at Electric Ireland, added, “Electric Ireland is thrilled to announce the 2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year. As we look back on another fantastic season, we are constantly inspired by the resilience, skill, and passion shown by these young athletes.
“From the incredible goal-scoring semi-finals to the dramatic, last-gasp finish in the All-Ireland final, this year has given us memories that will last a lifetime. This season we also loved bringing our ‘Player POV’ series to life, celebrating the unique link between the current crop of talent and the past minor stars who paved the way before them. We are proud to support these player pathways and we congratulate each of the fifteen players selected on this prestigious team.”
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